Cutting Techniques
Different techniques need different tools. This reference maps each major cutting technique to the blade types, sizes, and edge profiles that work best for it.
How to use this guide
Each technique page covers what the technique does, which scissor characteristics support it, and what to look for when choosing a tool. If you already know the technique and want the right scissors, skip to the recommendations section. If you’re learning the technique, read the full page.
Quick answers for stylists
- Doing mostly blunt work? Look at straight or sword blades with beveled or semi-convex edges, 5.5 to 6.0 inch.
- Lots of slide cutting? Bamboo leaf (sasaba) blades with convex edges and smooth tension.
- Point cutting for texture? Shorter blades (5.0 to 5.5 inch) with sharp tips and convex edges.
- Barbering and over-comb? Longer blades (6.5 to 7.0+ inch) with sword or straight profiles.
| See also: Blade Types | Edge Types | Scissor Sizes | Hair Types |
Browse All Types
Blunt Cut
Blunt cutting creates clean, solid weight lines by cutting hair straight across at the same length. The foundation technique every stylist must mas...
Learn More →Chip Cutting
Chip cutting uses small, rapid snips into hair ends to break up weight and add movement. Learn the technique, best scissor types, and when to use i...
Learn More →Disconnection
Disconnection creates deliberate breaks between hair lengths for dramatic, editorial styles. Learn how to cut disconnected layers and which scissor...
Learn More →Dry Cut
Dry cutting lets stylists see the hair's natural fall and texture while working. Learn when to cut dry, which scissors to choose, and how it improv...
Learn More →Effect Cutting
Effect cutting combines multiple techniques in a single cut to create unique, personalized textures. Learn how stylists use this advanced method fo...
Learn More →Feathering
Feathering softens hair ends into wispy, tapered points for lightweight movement. Learn the scissor angle, blade choice, and hair types that suit f...
Learn More →Freehand / Effilage
Freehand effilage removes bulk by gliding open blades through hair without closing fully. A French-origin technique for creating seamless, natural ...
Learn More →Graduation
Graduation builds stacked weight by cutting hair at angles below 90 degrees. Essential for bobs, A-lines, and structured shapes that need body and ...
Learn More →Layering
Layering removes weight and adds movement by cutting sections at varying elevations. Learn how different layering angles create distinct shape and ...
Learn More →Point Cut
Point cutting uses the scissor tips to cut into hair ends at an angle, creating soft texture and removing weight. A must-know finishing technique f...
Learn More →Precision / Sassoon Method
The Sassoon precision method uses geometric sectioning and exact angles for architectural shapes. Learn the foundation of modern precision haircutt...
Learn More →Razor Cutting
Razor cutting uses a straight or feather razor to slice through hair for ultra-soft, tapered ends. Learn the technique, ideal hair types, and razor...
Learn More →Scissor Over Comb
Scissor-over-comb is the barber's essential technique for blending short hair with precision. Learn the hand mechanics, comb angles, and best sciss...
Learn More →Slicing
Slicing glides a partially open blade along the hair shaft to remove bulk and create movement. Requires sharp convex edges and proper technique to ...
Learn More →Slide Cut
Slide cutting moves the scissor along the hair while gently closing to taper lengths and remove weight. A signature Japanese technique for flowing,...
Learn More →Stroke Cutting
Stroke cutting uses a sweeping blade motion to taper hair lengths for soft, blended results. Learn the hand movement, blade angle, and scissors tha...
Learn More →Tapering
Tapering gradually reduces hair thickness from root to tip for natural, lightweight ends. Learn the angles, scissors, and hair types that benefit f...
Learn More →Texturizing
Texturizing removes weight and adds movement within a haircut without changing the overall shape. Learn the tools, methods, and when to texturize v...
Learn More →Thinning
Thinning reduces bulk using thinning shears or texturizing scissors. Learn tooth counts, thinning rates, placement, and how to avoid common thinnin...
Learn More →Twist Cutting
Twist cutting twists a hair section before cutting to create irregular, organic texture and movement. An advanced technique for lived-in, modern fi...
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